Monday, May 16, 2011

Friday, May 20th is the culmination of a 3-year effort, initiated by BikeWalkLee, to develop the first comprehensive countywide plan for a network of bicycle and pedestrian facilities, and provide a blueprint to transform the county into a more bicycle and pedestrian-friendly community. The blueprint provides guidance to all jurisdictions in Lee County regarding facility improvements and policy recommendations aimed at better accommodation of bicycle and pedestrian modes of transportation.

At Friday's regular MPO meeting (starting at 9 a.m. at Victoria Ave.), it is anticipated that the Board will vote to adopt the master plan, with unanimous support from the three advisory committees and the MPO staff. We hope that statements in support of the plan during the public comment period will demonstrate broad community support for implementation of this plan.

BikeWalkLee is looking forward to having a blueprint for transforming the county into a more bike/ped-friendly community, which is part of the larger picture of changes we're advocating in Lee County to promote complete streets, better transportation and land use planning, and sustainability.

Thanks to everyone who has worked so hard to bring this plan to fruition. We know that adoption of the plan is just the beginning of a long process. Implementation of this important plan will take continued commitment and funding from the MPO, all the local jurisdictions, FDOT, and other organizations and agencies involved, as well as sustained support from the community and its citizens.

About BikeWalkLee Blog

This is the official Blog for BikeWalkLee.org. BikeWalkLee is a community coalition raising public awareness and advocating for complete streets in Lee County -- streets that are designed, built, operated and maintained for safe and convenient travel for all users: pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists, and transit riders of all ages and abilities.